Coriander Seeds 25g

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), known as cilantro for its leaves, is a dual-purpose cool-season herb loved across Egyptian kitchens. Its bright green, lacy foliage carries a fresh, almost citrusy aroma perfect for salads, salsa, soups and garnishes, while its ripe round fruits dry into warm, nutty spice. Each "seed" is actually a fruit holding two seeds.

Planting

Grow coriander as a winter crop in Egypt, since it bolts above about 29 C. In the Delta, direct-sow from mid October through January; in Upper Egypt sow a little later, around November to December, and harvest before the spring heat. Sow seed in place roughly 1.3 cm deep in full sun and well-drained soil; it dislikes transplanting because of its long taproot. Space rows about 38 cm apart. Germination is slow, taking around 2 to 3 weeks. Sow successively every 2 to 3 weeks for a steady supply.

Fertilizing

Because coriander is grown mainly for its leaves, it favours nitrogen. Apply about a quarter cup of a nitrogen fertilizer such as 21-0-0 per roughly 2.3 square metres, one or two times during the growing season to keep foliage lush.

Care

Keep the soil evenly moist, watering regularly while plants establish; once settled they need little water, and irrigation should be reduced as seeds near maturity. Avoid soggy ground. Thin leaf plants to about 5 cm apart, or 20 to 30 cm for seed production. Light afternoon shade slows bolting in warmer spells. Coriander is generally trouble-free, though watch for aphids, slugs and damping-off in crowded beds. Harvest leaves once plants reach 10 to 15 cm using cut-and-come-again, before flowering begins.